Golfing is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable sports out there. For golf enthusiasts, each round presents an opportunity to enjoy the fresh air, hone your skills and challenge yourself against the course.
Joining a private club can be an even greater way to experience the game of golf. Private clubs offer exclusive access to high-end courses, amenities like practice facilities and pro shops along with social activities that can make a day on the links even more fulfilling. 
Whether or not you decide to join a private club is up to you but it's worth considering all of the benefits it brings. You'll have access to meticulously maintained courses and practice areas, as well as exclusive member discounts and events that are not available at public courses. You'll also benefit from establishing relationships with other members and forging deeper connections with fellow golfers. Ultimately, it comes down to how much you value these experiences and if they are worth paying for in order to gain access to them.
8 Benefits of Joining a Private Golf Club
The decision to join a private club is a personal one. It depends on a number of factors that are very specific to your lifestyle, budgetary expectations, and your golfing preferences. However, there are a number of benefits to joining a private club that everyone can appreciate.
We take a look at eight important factors:
- Saving money through membership
- Ease of course access
- Superior quality
- Community
- Tournaments
- Pool access
- Leagues
- Social events
1. Saving Money through Membership
Joining a private club means paying a membership fee. If you play golf regularly, however, this membership fee can mean less spent on greens fees and expenses for visiting a course where you are not a member.
This is also the time to consider add-on fees and guest regulations, in order to find the club that suits you best.
2. Ease of Course Access
Private golf clubs offer easier access to the golf course than public courses. Any outside tournaments are usually restricted to a certain day (Mondays are common) which makes the course available 6 ½ days every week. Also, tee time apps are common making booking playing times instantaneous. The apps also let you see who is playing and if groups are looking to fill open spots.
3. Superior Quality
Private golf clubs have higher-quality golfing facilities and grounds. The fairways normally include irrigation that helps maintain uniform turf conditions throughout the golfing season despite weather changes. The putting greens are consistent and always roll true. The sand traps are maintained with specialized equipment and drainage. The practice areas are similarly maintained and normally provide unlimited practice balls.
4. Community
Connecting with other people who share a love of the game is one of the many appealing opportunities for golfers. Meanwhile, knowing the same people, from fellow players to the staff at the pro shop or the clubhouse, means a certain level of comfort. Your family will have the chance to connect with other families, and your children can make friends that last a lifetime.
5. Tournaments
If you enjoy golfing alone, this may not be a factor for you. However, for those who enjoy golfing for a good cause or competing against fellow golfers to see where you stand, tournaments are a great benefit of your private golf club membership. Also, a convenient, golf club-applied universal handicap will be used to level the playing field. The tournament experience is unique and a worthwhile challenge.
6. Pool Access
Joining a private golf club brings additional benefits, like access to the club pool. When considering a private golf club membership, check for pool hours and see if the club offers designated lap times or swim lessons for your younger family members.
7. Leagues
Most clubs offer league options. Do your research before you start the application process to make sure the club you are joining has the right leagues for your skill set and your goals.
Consider the following questions:
- Does your significant other play?
- Do they have leagues for couples?
- What are the days and times leagues compete?
- Can you be there regularly at the set time?
8. Social Events
Clubs have different takes on social events. They offer certain themes or styles of events. Talk to other members of the club to see if the social events the club holds are going to be appealing to you and your family.
Is Joining a Private Golf Club Worth It?
Joining a private golf club has a variety of benefits, from discounts at the restaurant or bar to the ability to obtain and maintain an official handicap. All of these benefits combined make joining a private golf club more than worth it for any golfer who is looking for improved quality of their experience on the course.
Not only will you be able to enjoy the company of other golfers, but you'll also have access to quality courses and amenities. This is a great way to really better your game and get more out of your time on the course.
Considering a Moon Brook Membership?
Moon Brook is conveniently located near Jamestown, NY, and offers numerous benefits with a private membership. For more information, check out our membership page, and don’t forget to get a sense of our social schedule by visiting our Facebook page.